Oh Ji Ho

Current Chuno Episode Ratings 1-20

2010-03-11T06:25:00.000-05:00

Chuno Episode Ratings 1-20 From DramaWiki
CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE.

Interview with Stars of ‘The Slave Hunters’

2009-12-22T05:26:00.007-05:00

“The Slave Hunters,” which is scheduled to air on January 6 on KBS2, is a period drama about two men--one chasing a slave who ruined his noble family and the other an army general reduced to a slave--and a woman both men love. Jang Hyuk will play the slave hunter Lee Dae-gil and Oh Ji-ho the army general Song Tae-ha. Lee Da-hae was cast for the role of the lucky woman Kim Hye-won. The three stars gave a pleasant interview ahead of the show’s release.

NOTE: The photo with this article is not the one you'll see at other sites. I selected this one because it shows the actors having a little fun during a photo session. Everyone on this project is working very hard to make it great, and no doubt they're suffering from being tired, cold, stressed out, etc. Therefore, I salute their humor. Enjoy the interview below the photo, and remember, their work is done for you.
Click image to enlarge.

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Q. (To Oh Ji-ho and Lee Da-hae) This is the first time you two have appeared in a period drama. How do you like it?

Oh: It was certainly not easy at first. The way of talking was quite unfamiliar to me, and I was told a lot that it didn’t suit my image. I also felt pressure since this is the first time I’ve starred in a historical drama. But now I am really enjoying it. Compared to dramas of present-day life, an epic drama has fewer lines to deliver but has more spectacular scenes to watch. There’s more fun in shooting it.

Lee: I too was worried a lot since I’ve never appeared in an epic show. But it turned out to be really fun. Now I have no problem climbing a mountain and answering nature’s call on a mountainside. The thing I like most is that I can spend a lot of time with other cast members and staff. Because the shooting takes place in a remote mountain, we have no choice but to be together all the time, eating together and talking together.

Q. (To Jang Hyuk and Lee Da-hae) This is the second time you two have starred in a drama together. How do you feel about it?

Lee: It’s good to work with him again. I feel comfortable acting since I already know him.

Jang: I found her very cool when we performed together in the previous show. So I’m very happy to work with her again. And I think a lot about how I can successfully express feelings for her since we are parted early in the drama and reunited a long time later.

Q. (To Jang Hyuk and Oh Ji-ho) It seems you will be able to impress many fans with your well-built bodies. How have each of you worked out to build such a physique?

Jang: I’ve tried to make my body suitable for my character, who needs to look agile rather than muscular. And that’s what the director wanted as well. He told us that since the drama is about men who basically live on the street, we need to engage in lots of physical activities and look tough and swift.

Oh: I’m not as well-built as Jang. All actors in our drama boast a good body. Jang’s even nicknamed “chocolate man” because his stomach is so well-built that it looks like a square chocolate bar.

Lee Da-hae interrupted, saying, “That’s why I like coming to the shoot. I was surprised to see all of them have such a nice body. Jang and Oh are making real efforts to keep fit and they like working out so much that they do it even on the set whenever they find available time.”

Q. (To Oh Ji-ho) Do you have any difficulty playing your role since he is supposed to be good at martial arts as an army general?

Oh: I had a hard time at first. Not only is it the first time that I appear in a historical and action drama, but I also have to use a big, heavy sword. I had lots of cuts and injuries. But I’ve gotten used to it, and Jang helps me a lot. So, it’s ok now.

Q. (To Jang Hyuk and Oh Ji-ho) You are at odds with each other in the drama. But how do you get along in reality?

Oh: We hit it off easily because we are the same age, although our interests are a bit different since he’s married and I’m not. I don’t usually gets nervous about people I work with, but I do when I’m with Jang because he is such a great actor who gives all he has to his role. And he is humorous, too.

Jang: I think Oh is very smart. He is also doing his best in his work. And I’m more humorous than Oh. (laughter) That’s perhaps because I’m married.

Q. (To Lee Da-hae) You must be very happy to be at the shoot, right? And who is closer to your ideal type?

Lee: Yes, I am. It’s so much fun. Often I am the only woman at the shoot, so everyone is so kind to me. I won’t be able to do any other work after this. And it’s hard to tell who is closer to my ideal type because both of them have their own charms.

Hearing that, Oh said jokingly, “You should choose me since I’m single,” while Jang said, “It’s just ideal type, and you should remember that we have starred together previously.”

The three stars all promised to give a good performance and asked viewers to show interest in the drama.

This interview may be seen in the original version at this link by clicking on it: http://english.kbs.co.kr/TVRadio/BehindtheDrama/view.html?No=310
December 11, 2009
Writer: KBSi Jin Yeong-ju
Video: KBSi Chung Yeon-kyu, Kim Seung-hee
Copyright ⓒ KBS & KBSi

Bahareh Responds & Ann Answers...Again 12/22

2009-12-05T19:06:00.004-05:00

Hi Dear Ann,
J! what will be happened if Oh Ji Ho read your comment??!! :D :D
I'm laughing and I cant write more... :D

Hi Bahareh,
Actually, he has a good sense of humor, so I'm sure he'd laugh. He doesn't take himself to seriously. All the women who are "in love" with him take him much more seriously than he ever will.

He's known to be funny, and pretty casual.

Ann answers again:

Hi dear Bahareh,
If we both see it as true, it must be so. :-)

I have not met him personally, but do have friends who have, and what I say about him comes from those friends who spent time in his company, talking with him at a personal level. This was not a 10 minute publicity visit. It was completely personal, and extended in time.

He's very nice, and not at all stuck on himself.

And he s definitely humorous.

A Mystery Solved

2009-11-29T14:37:00.002-05:00

In regard to photo #9 posted at "I have no idea"
"J" says: "It says he's getting a slipped disc looked in #9. Not hemorrhoids. LOL."

Why J.! (Jane is it? Yes? No?) What on earth leads you to imagine I was thinking of Hemorrhoids? Oh mercy me...

I thought he was getting a tattoo on his rear end.

Uh Oh...it had to happen.

2009-11-20T13:29:00.003-05:00

Yup, time for the sleepless-night-in-the-same-room episode. I wonder how long it will take for Oh Ji Ho to have his bathing scene in a stream-lake-big wooden tub-without clothing scene, without which no K-Drama is worth it's salt.

Click images to enlarge.

Chuno action shots

2009-11-18T17:35:00.005-05:00

Chuno is definitely an intense drama from the look of the stills. Hopefully it won't fall apart at some point. I'm really looking forward to watching it. Maybe I'll change my mind about (A.)soap opera (B)historical fare. That would certainly widen things a bit where entertainment is concerned.

I have no idea

2009-11-18T06:09:00.004-05:00

...what these pictures are about, but the first three are amusing, and the ninth is a total puzzle.
Click images t enlarge.

Oh Ji Ho @ CelebShop Opening

2009-11-10T23:32:00.001-05:00

Presentation by: akaichigo729

"Chuno 추노(Persuits Servant/ Slave Hunter) Trailer"

2009-11-10T23:23:00.002-05:00

This is a GREAT trailer. You'll like it!

Presented by agentcalvz

Oh Ji Ho gets there!

2009-11-01T18:01:00.005-05:00

I am not a sports fan, especially not a baseball fan. This is simply a great picture. It captures so much motion and energy . I really like this one, it's wonderful!
Click image to enlarge.

Oh Ji Ho Photos - October 28, 2009

2009-11-01T17:40:00.002-05:00

There are very few differences in these photos, but there are some. They were taken by different photographers, so the angles vary, as do the facial expressions. Have fun!
Click images to enlarge.

Oh Ji Ho - Mister Clean

2009-11-01T17:13:00.004-05:00

Hot or not...
I don't know how you feel about the change in Oh Ji Ho's appearance, but I love it. He looks as though he's having fun with it too. It makes me wonder what the people at Tremolo are feeling about it all. Their photos are for the purpose of selling their line, and the model is not allowed to detract from the garments.

This is beautiful. But is he sexy?
Click images to enlarge.

*************************************
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Now, if THIS man was walking along the street, and gave you the smile, would you say, "Humph", and walk away feeling annoyed, or would you flirt with him?

This is HOT. No question about it.

Oh Ji Ho in Chuno

2009-11-01T17:06:00.003-05:00

Not the General's best day...

Click Images to enlarge.

Where I am...

2009-10-29T07:26:00.008-04:00

While waiting for my copy of Queen of Housewives, I have been working on some of my very neglected blogs. I have a lot of blogs. Don't ask for an accurate count, I don't have my calculator handy.

My most important blog is called The Hagfish Chronicles. While you're waiting for something interesting to happen here, you might want to visit there. It is NOTHING like this blog. It is very personal, and sometimes very revealing of me. I try to keep the personal out of this blog as much as possible. It isn't about me, it's about Oh Ji Ho.

The Hagfish Chronicles is about my life. It is written in a very abstract, surreal manner, and will not amuse those who want gossip, or discussions of my taste in clothing, or what I ate yesterday, etc.

Meanwhile...here are a few pics from June and July 2009.

By the way, I'm feeling better.

Click images to enlarge.

Queen of Housewives

2009-10-24T19:22:00.010-04:00

That seems to be the title at the moment.

I will be getting a full copy of the drama pretty soon, and will be able to talk about it up here, and also get some good screen shots with descriptions of what is happening at that time.

Meanwhile here are a few photos I hope you haven't seen a million times already.

Click images to enlarge.

Another Death

2009-10-20T20:48:00.003-04:00

I am very sorry I have not been writing here for a long time.

There has been another death. I lost my sister.

My brain feels cooked.

I will answer some of the comments you have been leaving now, and will try to get back to posting again.

Thank you for your patience, and waiting for me.
Ann

NOTE: I have posted your comments with answers to you, if you're still there.

Oh Ji Ho, a lot sexy, and a little bit dangerous...

2009-09-04T06:08:00.010-04:00

Featured in Esquire Magazine (Korea) September 2009, Oh Ji Ho shows his new stuff.

Groove on it.

Click images to enlarge.

If there is any danger of your forgetting yesterdays, there's this gem to keep your mind clear.

Little notes

2009-09-04T04:23:00.002-04:00

Sara, I can not publish your comment because you have your email address in it. It would be bad for you to show it to the public.

I am not Oh Ji Ho. I am a woman writing this blog dedicated to Oh Ji Ho. This is his address where you can write to him:
Mr. Oh Ji Ho
Heavenly Star Entertainment
35-7 Nonhyun-dong,
Kangnam-gu,Seoul 135-815,South Korea

MUSIC from K-Dramas
I suggest if you are looking for OST (original sound track) CD's from any program, you try Yes Asia Global. If the OST is still being published, they will have it. They ship all over the world, and are good reliable people to deal with.

Yes Asia Link: http://www.yesasia.com/global/en/home.html

Good Luck! I hope you find what you want!
Ann

Oh Ji Ho grows hair for "Chuno"

2009-09-03T09:02:00.010-04:00

Oh Ji Ho needed to grow facial hair for the upcoming Drama, "Chuno" (KBS).

Here are a few shots of the process. Looks good to me. I once said I didn't think I would like him with facial hair. I got that wrong. He looks great. Enjoy the pictures.

Click images to enlarge.

About Chuno:
Synopsis and Credits from Dramawiki

Chuno follows the story of Lee Dae Gil, a man of high birth whose family was
ruined when Tae Ha, who became a slave after being falsely accused of a
crime he did not commit, burns down his house and escapes. Driven by his
desire for revenge, he survives his harsh years on the street and makes his
name as a slave hunter, dedicated in his pursuit of Tae Ha. Both men become
entangled in a love triangle with Un Nyun, a runaway slave who became a
nobleman's daughter.

Director: Kwak Jung Hwan
Screenwriter: Chun Sung Il

Cast:
Jang Hyuk as Lee Dae Gil
Oh Ji Ho as Song Tae Ha
Lee Da Hae as Un Nyun / Hye Won
Lee Jong Hyuk
Gong Hyeong Jin
Yoon Gi Won
Sung Dong Il
Jo Mi Ryung
Yoon Ji Min
Lee Han Wie
Jo Hee Bong
Kim Ji Suk
Han Jung Soo
Danny Ahn
Yoon Moon Sik
Jo Jin Woong

Early released photos from KBS
Click image to enlarge.

A bit of soccer from the past (for "B")

2009-09-01T12:15:00.002-04:00

Oh Ji Ho LOVES baseball!

2009-09-01T03:11:00.006-04:00

Here are a few baseball related photos from Korean news sites.

Enjoy them!

Click images to enlarge.

Sisters

2009-08-31T07:14:00.004-04:00

There are many women coming here because they are watching "Couple or Trouble" in their country now. I do know about that. I always understand why people are here. I know Oh Ji Ho's programs go all around the world.

I am sorry I do not speak/read any language except English.

We are together in our hearts and souls because we are women.

You are my reason for continuing this blog. It is for you.It is to bring you some small happiness in your life.

I give it to you with a loving heart. We are women. We are sisters.

Your friend in America,
Ann

Good Morning!

2009-08-29T10:07:00.002-04:00

GREETINGS to the women of Iran who are visiting this blog. It is a great pleasure for me to know you are here. I wish blessings for you, a peaceful life, and dreams of
Oh Ji Ho :-)

Ann

Greetings

2009-08-28T20:40:00.002-04:00

The posting to this site will begin again shortly.

I want to thank the people who were kind enough to give me consolation during this difficult time in my life.

I am feeling better, and will continue on of course. We cannot call yesterday back to ourselves, I am very much aware of this. Terry is the fourth person I have lost to suicide, but you never get accustomed to it. I have always gone forward.

I appreciate your patience and emotional generosity.

Yours,
Ann (Hyacinth)

Untitled

2009-07-07T16:41:00.001-04:00

There are some reasons why I am not posting here these days. I think I feel mentally dried out. I feel tired of tracking a total stranger, and listening in to his life as if he has no right to privacy. Sometimes I feel like a stalker. I don’t know where I’m at with this.

I had some news this afternoon that makes everything seem so damn trivial.

My best friend, Terry, committed suicide last night. A policeman came to my home and asked me a lot of questions about him, and I knew. I knew something really bad had happened. The officer didn’t want to tell me what it was, but finally he put me in contact with the police in Florida, which is where Terry was living.

He shot himself. I can almost see it. My heart is absolutely breaking into five million pieces. I feel like dust. I am, not a religious person, but I know many of you are. I think he was to some extent. So if you have a minute, just say a kind word for him. He would like that, and I would be grateful.

Ann

My Wife is a Superwoman extended

2009-05-08T21:38:00.003-04:00

It appears My Wife has been extended to either 18, or 20 episodes. Information found at d-addicts.com forum, and also at Dramawiki where I discovered the extended weeks added as I went looking for the average rating.

The show started out very low, and had tripled by the final episode.

I hope MBC doesn't blow this. A program can get very draggy if it's too long, HOWEVER, if it holds up it's sure to bring the possibility of awards next winter. That would be great. Hopefully, one falls into the hands of Oh Ji Ho, who certainly deserves more recognition than he receives.

So that's the interesting news of the day.

Letter from Asia Pacific Arts: "Ji-Ho Oh on APA's top ten list "

2009-05-08T14:40:00.002-04:00

This came in an email. I thought you might be interested in seeing it.

"Ji-Ho Oh made Asia Pacific Arts magazine's Top Ten list for the May 1st issue. Check it out here!"

http://www.asiaarts.ucla.edu/090501/article.asp?parentID=107812

Little Videos 4U

2009-05-03T14:21:00.002-04:00

There are now 21 little videos posted 4U. Access them from HERE if desired.

They are now labeled "Movies" for your convenience. If you wish to see all on one page click any label.

There are some very good ones there. Enjoy them!

A few words...

2009-04-27T08:35:00.004-04:00

When was I ever able to keep it to a few words, large or small?

About the wedding pictures that had been posted. There are several programs that have wedding pictures of Oh Ji Ho. The ones that come to mind are Autumn Shower, A Second Proposal, and now, My Wife is a Superwoman. Lots of stopped hearts...right?

I suspect there would be a good number of early warnings if Mr. Oh decided to marry. So not to worry. He's still single.

Not Seeing What you Want?

Marian, a very loyal follower of this blog, has mentioned not seeing enough of Oh Ji Ho's dramas on her TV Station.

I made the suggestion that she could get the station CEO's, or president's address (can be found through internet search using Google) and write directly to him or her. I always try to get to the top guy with letters. I seldom bother with customer service if it's important to me.

TV is all about money. The sponsors want to support programs that will give them the best result in their pockets. If viewers are not happy with the programs on the stations they watch, they are not so likely to buy items advertised.

As I told Marian, I am a great believer in real letters on real paper. If you sit down and write a letter, put a stamp on it, and go out to mail it, You Are Serious.

If you have friends who feel the same way, get them to write also. The more attention you demand by speaking out, the more possible it is to make changes.

Title: Oh Ji Ho's Smile Fails to Impress Large Animal
Click image to enlarge.

I LOVE THIS PICTURE!

Good News, Bad News

2009-04-21T18:45:00.002-04:00

First the bad news.
Regarding the photos from La Belle I have been working on; unfortunately they will not be posted at this time. Due to a glitch in my computer, all the still photos I had gathered over a period of weeks have been lost. It is too labor intensive to redo, and may never be again.

When I lost them, I was frustrated and angered. Then I thought it out, and said to myself, this is Kismet, fate. I was not meant to post these photos. There was so much involved and it was so difficult at times. It seems there is a reason not to have them out.

Sorry to let you down.

The good news? The ratings for the new show look solid. That's a cause for celebration, and a nice birthday gift to him, also supplied by the fates. It's time Oh Ji Ho got a powerful shot of good luck.

Twelve Pictures are Worth a Thousand Words...

2009-03-24T21:27:00.004-04:00

or something to that effect. You can see how far I got with my project... But if you found these, could you have resisted? I love them.
Click images to enlarge.

Home again...

2009-03-24T19:40:00.002-04:00

Ah yes, modern technology. I have been off the web for days and days, unable to access it due to the most ridiculous thing imaginable.

Because I have a dial up connection, which is dead slow to begin with, I am at the mercy of the telephone equipment.

The line I use for the computer was screeching static when I finally thought to check the phone out today. Static, when it's really bad, breaks the connection to the computer and otherwise slows everything to a crawl.

I was working at less than 20% power when I had any at all. Forget it. You can do nothing at that rate of speed.

So I'm here now, with a cord stretched across the room to another phone jack.

I'm working on the La Belle pictures. I haven't forgotten. It's slow going since I'm capturing frame after frame.

Be patient.

Working!

2009-03-14T05:28:00.008-04:00

Click images to enlarge.

I wish I had $100.00 for every heart that stopped when these wedding pix were seen.

# 1 Pop Quiz, #2 Something to Think About!

2009-03-11T21:44:00.008-04:00

Special Note: Initials-of visitors w/correct answers. KG

#1 This is a screen capture from La Belle. Question: Is there something funny about the picture? Answer on the right hand side at the Poll just under the Bulletin Board.

If you do see something funny, and you want to describe it, leave a comment at the bottom of this entry where you see the word, "comments".
Click image to enlarge.

#2 Something to think about.
The photo below is also a screen capture from La Belle. For my new project, I have been slowly picking up screen captures from the movie. My objective is to post a collection of unedited/uncensored pictures at a different blog.

This blog is set up for everyone to enjoy. Because it is so, I avoid using too many swear words, and try to keep it tasteful.

The La Belle blog is set up for consenting adults. You must agree to a statement regarding your understanding of the contents, and click a button to get in. The only thing that does, is keep me from being harrassed about nudity, etc.

If a visitor has been warned they might see a buttock, he/she can't really go screaming to Google because I showed them said buttock. The photo below has been edited by cropping. It will be at the other blog in it's entirity.
Click image to enlarge.

Publicity

2009-03-11T11:13:00.004-04:00

...always a good thing.

An article from The Korea Times

New Types of Husbands to Sneak Onto TV Screen
The Korea Times
03-10-2009 15:34

MBC brings the story of passionate wives and clueless husbands through new drama ``My Wife Is a Superwoman.'' The series starts March 16 at 9:55 p.m.

Courtesy of MBC

By Han Sang-hee
Staff Reporter

Marriage requires many things-- from caring and understanding to sacrificing and communicating. MBC's new drama ``My Wife is a Superwoman'' showcases the role of Korean wives when they were traditionally the ones who had to endure sacrifice and completely support their husbands, also known as ``naejo '' in Korean.

Starring Kim Nam-joo, Oh Ji-ho and Lee Hae-young, the 16-part series will feature the stories of three couples tangled up in different relationships and situations.

The 37-year-old Kim, who has returned to the spotlight after an eight-year hiatus, will be the ``superwoman'' Cheon Ji-ae who struggles to regain her own status and also her husband's.

``As a mother of two and an `ajumma,' I thought this was a perfect role for me. Times are difficult these days, and I liked that the drama is bright and upbeat,'' Kim said, referring to the Korean term that means married middle-aged woman, at a press conference.

Cheon, who was once the most popular girl in high school, marries the smart Ohn Dal-soo, played by Oh, dreaming of the perfect marriage. But when she realizes that Ohn is an underperformer at work, she is determined to support her husband and help him climb the corporate ladder. The determined Cheon meets her match, however, when she discovers that Ohn's boss is the husband of her childhood enemy, Yang Bong-soon.

Promising ``naejo'' was primarily the role of wives when men were the main breadwinners. Wives would stay home, take care of the children and finish up house chores before the husbands came home to rest and prepare for another busy day ahead. The traditional belief was that the more fit the wife was for ``naejo'' culture, the better off the husband would be out in society.

A short conversation between America's former first lady Hillary Clinton and her husband Bill also shows how the current Secretary of State believed in the importance of her role as a wife. The couple stopped by a gas station only to find Hillary's former boyfriend was the owner. When her husband told her she could have ended up as the owner's wife, she replied that then the gas station owner would have become the president. Incidentally, South Korea's first lady Kim Yun-ok also defined ``naejo'' as the ``opposition party,'' for sometimes you must harshly criticize your husband's deeds.

As many women nowadays often choose their careers over staying at home and solely supporting their husbands, the drama will try to bring back the passionate wives who supported their husbands, though with a modern and more aggressive twist.

``In the drama, Cheon follows Yang and helps her with house chores, shopping, and sometimes even cooks for her, which is harder to do when the person is someone you hate. For me, I think the best `naejo' is to help the husband feel comfortable, which is necessary to go out and work well,'' Kim said.

Married to fellow actor Kim Seung-woo, she also added that her husband didn't need the help, or naejo, because he was nothing like Ohn in the story.

Kim's husband made a cameo appearance in the drama, making a ``wejo'' move, referring to the husband's version of ``naejo.''

``I decided to appear in the drama just to support my wife, who is returning to the television screen after many years,'' Kim said, smiling at the shoot.

With high expectations in bringing the tactics and strategies for supporting diffident husbands to the small screen, `` My Wife Is a Superwoman'' will start airing March 16 at 9:55 p.m. on MBC.

LINK to original article.

From La Belle

2009-03-08T22:52:00.003-04:00

The writer still able to work before his life goes to hades in a handbasket.
Click image to enlarge.

Oh Ji Ho in Japan

2009-03-08T14:12:00.004-04:00

This is not a good picture. It came from a Japanese newspaper online. It was taken during the fan club visit/photo book promotion trip in February. Nice ensemble...he wears gray well.

Spring cometh...

2009-03-06T23:43:00.005-05:00

Sorry I've been off line for a while. I'm not feeling well. However, a couple of mentions.

You may or may not have noticed there's a little bulletin board in the sidebar to your right. Keep your eye on it, because I will be updating it, adding quick new info and deleting the old.

The Tremolo Spring catalog is up now, but I'm feeling too lifeless to bring you photos at this time. The link to Tremolo is on the bulletin board. You can drop in if you wish.

Meanwhile, a teaser...
Click image to enlarge. It's huge.

Dream Girls

2009-03-06T22:38:00.006-05:00

Oh Ji Ho on Opening Night (I think. It may also be a preview special performance as these photos were taken on February 28th. It is my understanding the show is slated to open in March, but I could be wrong. At any rate, he attended.)
Click images to enlarge.

"Dreamgirls" will open in Korea at Charlotte Theater in Jamsil-dong Seoul next March before moving to Boston to start its U.S. tour.

Is it ever easy? No.

2009-02-26T21:55:00.003-05:00

You can call this the After Single Papa Syndrome.

Single Papa was a nightmare. After having watched the depressing ratings that seemed to go nowhere but down, a case of pre production jitters hit me. I even dreamed last night about the making of the upcoming drama.

The dream was absurd.

Oh Ji Ho was walking the dog in a park, and decided to allow it to run a bit without a leash. The dog looked up at Oh Ji Ho, Oh Ji Ho looked down at the dog in disgust because he didn't like walking him for bathroom purposes.

Then the dog took off like a bat out of hell.

They were both running full speed ahead, but the dog, being younger and a non-smoker, had the advantage, and left Oh Ji Ho in the dust. Finally they both slowed down, with Oh Ji Ho gasping and swearing at the dog, and the dog giving Oh Ji Ho amused dog looks.

He lay in the grass panting slightly as Oh Ji Ho wheezed his way toward him. Just as he was about to dive onto the dog and attach the leash, the dog took off again.

By this time Oh Ji Ho was out of patience. Any concern for his image went out the window. He let loose a stream of rant, finishing off with a statement along the lines, the dog farted too much, had bad breath, shed hair all over the place, peed on his favorite shoes, and wasn't even fit to eat, let alone be on TV.

Of course there was a large audience for this mini comedy/drama. The inevitable cluster of ajummas were scandalized to the extent they started yelling at Oh Ji Ho, and saying, "Boycott the new drama. This man is not nice to dogs!"

I woke up with the thought in my mind..."I'm going to go kill myself..." Then I started laughing in wary relief. "It Was just a dream", I said.

HOWEVER, there is a rumble in the land:

Media Workers Launch General Strike
Thursday, February 26, 2009 18:59:40

The National Union of Media Workers has launched a general strike in protest of the ruling camp’s introduction of bills seeking revisions to media laws.

Starting at 6 am Thursday, unionists of the Munwha Broadcasting Corporation, one of the nation’s major TV networks, began boycotting production. Nonunion members are filling the vacancies left by workers who are on strike.

Unionized members of the Seoul Broadcasting System also decided they will join the strike if the media bills make their way to a plenary session of the National Assembly. Unionized workers at EBS, YTN and CBS are also deciding when to join the strike and what their level of participation will be.

Union workers at KBS who withdrew from the National Union of Media Workers last year also denounced the GNP's unilateral introduction of the media bills. In a statement on Thursday, the KBS union said it will hold a vote on March second on whether to join the strike. The statement said it will immediately launch a general strike if the GNP puts the bills to a vote at a plenary session of the National Assembly.

The 22 media reform bills would allow major newspapers and conglomerates to own broadcasting companies, including cable TV networks. They would also be allowed to own between a 30 and 49 percent stake in news-only cable channels and other cable networks that will offer a complete range of programming, including news and entertainment.

The GNP says revisions to media laws are necessary to respond to the changing media environment and to create jobs. But opposition parties and critics of the media bills say they would result in the monopolization of media markets by a handful of conservative newspapers and conglomerates.

Reported by KBS WORLD Radio LINK

Let's all keep our fingers crossed, and be nice to dogs. March 9, 2009 was a bad day astrologically. March 16, 2009 is much better. I want to believe things will work out well. I have a feeling that it will, but after Papa, I, as I said above, do have the jitters.

And to all, a good night.

Queen of Housewives Verification

2009-02-26T06:21:00.002-05:00

The opening date for Queen of Housewives has been verified as March 16, 2009 at 21:55.

While you're waiting...

2009-02-25T08:28:00.005-05:00

This is a picture of the official Oh Ji Ho fan club home page. When you enlarge the photo, it will fill most of your screen depending on the size of your monitor.

Click image to enlarge, then stand back. It's big.

I strongly suggest you visit the site. Even though you are not a member, you can still access some photos by clicking on "GALLERY". It's fun. You'll like it. Get to the site by clicking HERE.

POSSIBLE ERROR

2009-02-24T13:39:00.005-05:00

The new show may in fact be opening on March 16, 2009, not March 9, 2009 as previously posted. There appears to be a discrepancy in listings.

East of Eden is currently in the MBC 21:55 time slot on Monday and Tuesday. Queen of Housewives will be the next drama. If I see any other data regarding scheduling, I'll post at once.

Meanwhile, my final Harry Potter book has arrived, and I'm dying to read it. So, I'm off for now.

The Queen in Ascension

2009-02-23T09:23:00.003-05:00

From the promo shots, this has a definite look of female in ascendancy. Please note, the Queen is comfortably positioned to whack her husband on the head with a skillet.

Click image to enlarge.

Catch you later. Have a bright and shiny day.

Pix

2009-02-22T12:48:00.003-05:00

If you want to see more promotional pix for the upcoming Queen of Housewives, you can go directly to MBC for them. They are gigantic. Wallpaper size. See them here.

What I do or don’t know…

2009-02-21T14:46:00.002-05:00

The new MBC mini drama/comedy Queen of Housewives, apparently centers around three couples. One couple, played by Oh Ji Ho and Kim Nam Joo, brings the pair together again after nearly a decade.

They were co-stars in the movie I Love You, an intense story which brought out a lot of angst in the characters.

I felt they worked well together, and look forward to seeing them in an entirely different setting.

Oh Ji Ho will be playing a spouse who dabbles in infidelity, which is bound to outrage some, and drive others to engage in wild fantasizing. Whatever rings your bell.

Rather than being the weighty and critically moralistic vehicle Autumn Shower was, it’s possible this work will put a lighter spin on the cheating heart (and other parts, etc.) factor since it is a slice of life, and who among us hasn’t been lured or tempted by one thing or another?

There is a description of the show which I just came across at K-popped. I would call it a pretty good short synopsis, written with wit. Check it out. LINK

So far, Dramawiki has minimal data other than cast listing and scheduled time.

Are we having fun yet?

2009-02-20T14:45:00.006-05:00

Here's something for you.

This article below would probably serve as a synopsis of 'Queen of Housewives' if you can read it in the original language.

2009-02-20 11:45
[뉴스엔 송윤세 기자]

“너무 편해 연기가 안 되면 어쩌죠?”

‘내조의 달인들이 펼치는 맛있는 비빔밥 같은 이야기’를 표방하는 MBC 새 월화 드라마 ''내조의 여왕''(극본 박지은/연출 고동선, 김민식)에서 남다른 인연의 김남주-오지호-이혜영이 만났다.

배우들은 작품에서 좀처럼 다시 만나기 힘들지만 이들은 셋 다 반가운 인연으로 한 작품에서 뭉치게 돼 ‘너무 즐겁다’는 반응이다.

김남주와 이혜영은 평소 또래 여성 연기자들과 함께 친목 모임에 참여하고 있는 두말할 나위도 없는 ‘절친’관계. 1999년 MBC 드라마 ‘왕초’에서 같이 출연한 이후 두 번째 만남이다.

또 오지호는 두 ‘여인’과 남다른 작품 인연이 얽혀 있다. 김남주와는 2001년 영화 ‘아이 러브 유’에서 이루지 못한 사랑을 간직한 연인으로 만났고 이혜영과는 2004년 시트콤 ‘형사’에서 연인으로 호흡을 맞췄다.

김남주는 “워낙 둘 다 편안하게 보았던 친구와 후배다 보니 오랜만에 복귀한 촬영장 분위기가 너무 든든할 것 같다.”며 환하게 웃었다. 오지호 역시 “두 여자 선배들과는 마치 패밀리 같다”며 “처음의 어색함이 없이 바로 호흡이 맞는다는 점에서 출발 느낌이 좋다”고 전했다.

이들은 포스터 촬영 때도 서로 남매처럼 친구처럼 반가움을 보이고 편안하게 촬영에 임하면서 찰떡 호흡을 과시했다.

한편 ‘내조의 여왕’은 고교시절 학교에서 한 미모하던 퀸카 천지애(김남주 분)가 서울대 출신의 훤실한 매력남 달수(오지호 분)와 결혼에 성공했지만 사회 조직 적응력이 ‘제로 맨’에 가까운 달수가 백수로 지내면서 화려했던 천지애의 수난시대가 시작되는 코믹한 내용이다.

김남주와 오지호가 부부로 등장하고 이혜영-최철호 커플, 선우선-윤상현 커플이 펼치는 드라마 ‘내조의 여왕’은 3월 9일 첫방송된다.

Got that? No? Oh, well try this then:

Google Translation: Korean » English

[Songyunse nyuseuen News]

"If you're not too comfortable smoke What do we do?"

'Wife of the master of the story unfold like a delicious Bibimbap' to stand for wolhwa MBC new drama queen of''wife''(a play Park / director godongseon, gimminsik) in the unique bond of gimnamju - ohjiho - yihyeyoung met.

Actors work hard to meet again, but rarely in the clot in all three works have a good relationship 'so fun' is the reaction.

The usual age and yihyeyoung gimnamju with female actors in the mixer and goes without saying that no 'jeolchin' relationships. 1999 MBC Drama 'padrone' a film together is the second meeting.

The two ohjiho 'woman' and the outstanding work that he is involved. With gimnamju in 2001 for her love, unfailing love in the unfulfilled lover yihyeyoung met with the 2004 sitcom 'criminal' as a lover in the hit breathing.

Gimnamju the "so both hubaeda friends and I saw a comfortable atmosphere for a long time back too deundeunhal is set." He smiled brightly. Ohjiho too "with two women like you are family," the "first right of breathing without awkward start in the right to have a good feeling," he said.

When they shoot each other poster said bangaum like friends, like brother and sister comfort each other breathing and had to shoot imha.

The 'Queen of woman's beauty in high school, the school was kwinka cheonjiae (gimnamju minutes) from the Seoul National University hwonsilhan charmer dalsu (ohjiho minutes) and the marriage was successful, but the social organization, adaptable to the' zero-Man dalsu close to the going to the unemployed, the colorful era to the beginning of heaven and earth, the sufferings of a child is comical.

Gimnamju and as a couple and ohjiho yihyeyoung - choecheolho couples, seonwooseon - despite a couple yunsanghyeon Drama 'wife of the Queen's March 9 is the first broadcast.

Now I know it's all clear for you, I feel so much better. Here are two photos to go with the text.

Click images to enlarge.

What's doing?

2009-02-20T06:03:00.007-05:00

Hillary Clinton visits South Korea, North Korea rattles the saber, and Oh Ji Ho is working on 'Queen of Housewives', a new comedy/drama, or drama/comedy. (As you prefer.)

It will air in early March on MBC.

The title is open to perpetual change, of course, along with misinterpretation, and all the other South Korea to oddities we find so endearing.

I found a bunch of photos via the news when I finally wandered up to check it out yesterday, but will only post this one because it strikes me as amusing.

The rest of them will glut the web before long. I'll do my share of glutting I suppose. Just not today.

Meanwhile, check out the matching hairstyles. I love this.

Click image to enlarge.

Bath House

2009-01-28T12:03:00.007-05:00

Oh yes...the Bath House Ladies. I love this little collection. The woman here was on for less than a minute, but she leaves a definite impression. She's so good.
Click images to enlarge.

2009-The Year of the Earth Ox

2009-01-25T12:04:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

PEACE
HEALTH
PROSPERITY
JOY

Water Baby

2009-01-18T23:28:00.006-05:00

Click images to enlarge.

From Get Karl, Oh Su Jung.

Tremolo

2009-01-16T11:50:00.003-05:00

I LOVE this picture. The hat is great!

Click image to enlarge.

Super Model

2009-01-15T15:22:00.005-05:00

Asia Model Festival Awards
January 15, 2009

There is an excellent article by Javabeans posted at Dramabeans regarding this event.

I have referred to Oh Ji Ho as Super Model here more as an honorary title than a reality.

Modeling has been a longstanding occupation for him, in fact however, he is a man for all seasons, which made itself more and more evident as he branched out into other areas (acting, singing, spokesperson, amusing TV guest, dedicated amateur baseball player, and so on).

At this point, his obvious love for baseball has been dominant in various commentaries, and at his own blog.

But aside from steady modeling work with Tremolo, he has been active in charity functions as a model also,

and on January 15, 2009, culled an award at the Asia Models Festival Awards as a Model Star. I’m not sure what makes Han Ji-hye and Oh Ji Ho Model Stars more than other actors getting awards but there you have it.

After reading the news articles (translated insanely by automated service) I was confused. After reading Javabeans’ easy to understand commentary, I am still confused. But that’s Korea for you. You gotta love it.

I grew up hearing a show business axiom: Any publicity is better than no publicity. Whatever gets your face in the news is getting your face in the news.

Click Images to enlarge.

Will She Laugh?

2009-01-15T12:19:00.003-05:00

Short clip from La Belle by OldMaster

This is the only clip by OldMaster pertaining to Oh Ji Ho

Cool Series 1

2009-01-11T14:37:00.013-05:00

In 2001 KBS aired a miniseries called "Cool". Oh Ji Ho had a part as a "co-worker" for a wedding planning company.

Miniseries "Cool"
Aired on KBS Jul. 9-Aug. 28/2001
Oh Ji Ho as PhilipSuh
NOTE:data from KoreanWiz

There is scarcely any further information regarding this long gone program. I think it was favorably received by viewers however, since I have seen stray comments here and there regarding him in the role of Philip Suh.
NOTE: as the name of the character is in English, I have listed it in the Anglicized manner.

The following photos are from various sources. They were found so long ago, I have no idea of their origin.

Click images to enlarge.

SERIES CONTINUES BELOW

Cool Series 2

2009-01-11T14:10:00.003-05:00

There is YouTube clip posted by zionizm. It is approximately 10 minutes long. It is the last part of the "Cool Series". You will find it directly below.

I made some screen caps for anyone not wishing to view the clip due to slow Internet connection, or any other reason for that matter.
SPOILER
Philip does not seem pleased by the conversation. For those not interested or able to view the clip, he gets disgusted and walks out on the group.

YOUTUBE VIDEO NEXT

Cool Series 3

2009-01-11T14:00:00.001-05:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, here for your viewing pleasure, a clip from "Cool".(No Subtitles)
Created by zionizm. To see more from zionizm, click on the name.

There is a time lag on the soundtrack, but considering how scarce this is, it's worth gold.

I hope you have enjoyed this series.

Indonesia

2009-01-04T15:17:00.002-05:00

The earthquakes that have been taking place in Indonesia over several days have caused great hardship for many.

There are losses of loved ones, homes, employment. Many are injured, and not least of all, suffering from the shock of the upheavals.

This site has numerous Indonesian visitors. I am so sorry for your troubles, and hope you will come through it all.

For those who have suffered the loss of family members, and loved ones, I send my deepest sympathy.

If you live in a country that has made appeals for donations to aid Indonesia, please give what you can to help.

Hyacinth

The Last Day...finally

2008-12-31T11:46:00.007-05:00

There is nothing earth shattering to remark upon EXCEPT, the United States has elected a man of color, and a Democrat at that, at last. I am a hard core Democrat, and a solid believer in the equality of one and all.

We are separated only by concepts we are taught to believe. Ask yourself on this day, are they really your concepts, or do you have space in your mind and soul to explore and accept the cultures, beliefs, and appearance of others?

Since so many of you are not living here in the US, yet visit here faithfully, I must believe your answer is yes.

I welcome you all.

A little treat is in store for you. First, I want to show you a photograph.
Click image to enlarge.

Second, here is the link to Heavenly Star Entertainment. Click on the name, or copy and paste the address into your browser http://www.heavenlystar.co.kr/index.htm

You will be greeted by a pop-up of Oh Ji Ho, which should amuse you. From the top menu, select H.S. Artist. You'll see Oh Ji Ho in the first box, and also a tab to your right that says "Gallery". There are very nice photos of Oh Ji Ho and the other actors Heavenly Star represents.

Have a nice visit, and of course, have a Happy NEW Year.

A word of advice: Don't eat things that make you sick, and let go of your past grievances. You'll be happier, and your tummy won't hurt.
Ps. this site rolled over 100,000 hits some time last night. That's cool.

Get Karl, Oh Su Jung NEW VERSION

2008-12-09T11:11:00.003-05:00

It just goes to show you...if you wait nearly forever, something good comes along. Hopefully you stay alive to enjoy it if you're over 1000 years old.

There is a new version of Get Karl, Oh Su Jung on the market. It is out of Malaysia, and may very well have good English subtitles. How could they be worse than the other version currently available to the western audience? The idea refuses to form fully in my mind as I suffer from acute lousy subtitleitis.

This version bears the title, "Oh Su Jung VS Karl", as you can see from the photo.

My suggested merchant is HKFlix. They are coming in at $39.95 USD. I've seen it listed as high as $89.99 (insane price).

The economy shipping cost is $2.95 USD. You can upgrade to $3.95 USD if you're in a hurry to buy. Orders over $49.00 are shipped free via economy mail. If you purchase there, as you are checking out, all shipping options are clearly posted.

I think this is the best deal you're going to get for this set. You might find it cheaper on eBay, but the postage will probably put you in the poorhouse.

Direct link to item: http://www.hkflix.com/xq/asp/filmID.546500/qx/details.htm

Availability

2008-12-07T16:03:00.005-05:00

A couple of Oh Ji Ho's works are always being searched for.
One is the movie, I Love You. It is frequently out of stock, some sites list it as out of print.
Click images to enlarge.

This is a site called eSiam DVD
The link to the store is http://www.esiamdvd.com/index.php
The direct link to the product is: http://www.esiamdvd.com/asiandvdcountries/china/koreanmovieschina/iloveyou.php
I Love You is in stock there as of this notice (December 7, 2008)

It is also available at 1StopMovie.Com - Best Buy http://www.1stopmovie.com/
Direct link to product: http://www.1stopmovie.com/doutput.php?vpcode=1106&vtitle=I%20Love%20You%20(2001)
This item is listed as Temporarily Out of Stock. I suspect they will be getting it in again. Keep checking there if interested.
***********************

The second is the full-size K-Drama, A Second Proposal.
To my knowledge, due to copyright law and KBS's propriety policy, it is only available through them.

KBS America click product page at the site. The price is very high. $89.99 USD, plus rather salty shipping charges. If you really want to own it, bite the bullet and get for yourself for Christmas. http://www.kbs-america.com/product/index.php

Autumn Shower End

2008-12-07T01:33:00.002-05:00

A beautiful presentation by 7061b
7061b's YouTube Channel
Time 4:42

From the Past

2008-10-28T20:42:00.005-04:00

A. Ho from Hong Kong sent this great photo to me a while ago. My apologies for taking so long to post it.

The text below the photo is by A. Ho
Click image to enlarge.

Hi Ann,
I found the attached picture on the TVB website. It was taken early this year when Oh Ji Ho visited Hong Kong for the Diesel party. He was pictured with the tv host, Sung Chi Ling who interviewed him. She is of Chinese-Korean descent and speaks fluent Korean. She wrote in her blog that she had high opinion of the actor.
Cheers,
A.

Back half on track...one foot over the cliff

2008-10-27T19:43:00.004-04:00

Dear viewers,
I have generally gone out of my way to avoid personal situations or data to enter this blog. I am not always so disciplined. I do think it is obvious I have been away for longer than anticipated. To those loyal souls who stuck with it for so long, I say Thank You for your loyalty. My reason for absence is private, but I do apologize for not updating a return date for you. I didn't know when, or even if, I would resume maintaining this site.

At this point it's a matter of personal desire. Any feeling this is obligatory for me turns it into the kiss of death. If I can proceed pressure free, things will probably return to normal...whatever that is.

While I'm chatting along, allow me to introduce Marianne to you. Marianne has become a loyal follower of this blog, and is most welcome. She COOKS. She cooks KOREAN FOOD. You must see her blogs. Chopsticks optional.

Something Nice For Sunday

2008-10-26T12:42:00.003-04:00

Click image to enlarge.

Mystery

2008-10-25T17:12:00.005-04:00

I have no idea what the story is behind this photo. My first thought was "seasick?" That's improbable. The shot was a vague image in color. Converting it to B&W did help, but the image still has a peculiar resolution. All this jabber explains why I labelled it "Mystery". It is to me.
Click image to enlarge.

Here

2008-07-04T10:15:00.004-04:00

Returned conditionally. Say nothing.

I am an individual split by the desire to sleep in my cave, and/or to stretch my hand into the sunlight past the entry way.

Typhoon Fengshen

2008-06-22T08:16:00.003-04:00

To my friends and readers from the Philippines,

I am deeply saddened and distressed to learn of Typhoon Fengshen, and of the resulting loss of lives.

It is also true that many are waiting for word of the lost. My dearest wish is that your loved ones will be found alive.

I convey my deepest condolences to the families who have suffered deaths of their loved ones.

There are no correct words for this.

You mean so much to me. My comments here are not hollow. I grieve with you, not only for lives lost, but also, for all the pieces of your lives you may have lost.

Hyacinth

Chocolate melts

2008-06-21T15:32:00.003-04:00

...but then it becomes syrup to put on ice cream.

I am aware Oh Ji Ho had a few difficult moments onstage, and in fact left the stage, but returned to sing a song he had flubbed.

I want to say a few words about that.

There are questions and comments regarding his shyness. That shyness is sometimes seen as peculiar; something people don’t understand. They feel, if he can do a drama for TV he should be able to get onstage and perform like a well trained seal.

In fact, there are few performers capable of going onstage without wanting to throw up first. Stage fright is one of the most common bonds among performers anywhere working with an audience a couple of feet away.

Working in front of an audience, singing, dancing, acting, or even being interviewed, is a major tension producer. It’s up close and personal. They can throw tomatoes at you, or boo you off the stage. The audience is like a beast at first. A scary one, with big teeth.

The biggest difference between doing a drama, and live audience work is the screw-up factor. You can’t take the screw-up back in front of an audience; although Oh Ji Ho bravely did just that. Bravo for him!

When was the last time you thought about how long it takes to get an hour’s worth of K- drama in the can? Try 20 hours. Not always, like everything else in the world, some days go like silk. But as we all know, they’re few and far between, and the hassle imps are always sitting there snickering, and coming up with new ways to make you fall flat on your face.

BUT in filming, you have all the opportunity in the world…time allowing, to take the screw-ups back. Over and over, until you get it right.

There is no comparison between shaking in your shoes in front of the beast, and being allowed to fix up your errors among friends.

So if you happen to be in an audience some day, and a performer flubs a line, or sings a flat note, hold your breath, and wish the best to them. They are there working to please you. How many people do you have in your life doing that?

Now I have an odd little present for you. It’s a quote.

“Fresh experience.”

“Trembling.”

That is a comment left by Oh Ji Ho at his Cyworld blog under a photo of him standing alone on a stage with a microphone in his hand.

The show? Chocolate.

It is a beautiful gem of honesty and vulnerability unveiled. A small offering to you from him. It is a gesture of trust in your good hearts. Cherish it.

AFTER WORD 10/27/08
I am very sorry to discover through a message from 'ZioSmile', the clip posted here has been removed from YouTube By Google, which now owns YouTube, and is working on owning the world eventually.

Something else will come along. I guess.

Everyone Loves Chocolate

2008-06-20T05:36:00.004-04:00

"Chocolate", is the name of a program which is broadcast in Korea on SBS.

Oh Ji Ho and V.O.S. recently appeared on the show. The web is flooded with photos of the event, but this one is not shown prominently.

I selected it because it amuses me for a number of reasons, one being, an avid fan, a watermelon in the audience, cheering Zio on as any good watermenlon would. Another is the lavender/purple streak down Oh Ji Ho's back, causing him to look as though he's had a rest in a paint pot.
Click image to enlarge.

For those who do not have a sense of the absurd, or a sense of humor, I will point out it is a fluke of the light, and is actually someone's head that only looks like a watermelon. And of course, for those easily offended by any humor regarding Mr. Oh, I do know it's stage lighting. Lighten up...this site is here to inform and amuse.

On the business side with a tad less glamor, Oh Ji Ho's contract with Tremolo has been renewed. It never hurts to make money.

If you go to the Tremolo site, this popup will greet you. First popup I've ever seen that didn't irritate me.

Re my prolonged absence: In May I had a fall, and sustained some injuries. Obviously it didn't kill me, and I'm doing okay. And even though there are some out there who wish I would disolve or disintegrate, I am still here. Or, I was the last time I looked anyway...

You may laugh now.

Foreign News Correspondent A. Ho on the job!

2008-05-29T10:39:00.004-04:00

Oh Ji Ho arriving at new Diesel store Grand Opening party in Hong Kong.
Original Source: yahoo.com.hk

Many thanks again A. Do you know this has not hit the Korean online news? Because of your efforts, we are scooping major Korean news sources. You deserve a huge round of applause!

Everybody, clap your hands for A. Ho! Make it loud enough to be heard across the world!

Oh Ji Ho, out and about...

2008-05-28T10:11:00.007-04:00

Our diligent Hong Kong reporter, A. Ho sends this:

Oh Ji Ho in Hong Kong for Diesel Store opening

‘This is my fourth visit to Hong Kong. I’ll stay for 3 days to attend the Diesel events…. There may not be time for sightseeing,’ said Oh Ji Ho in English.

The Korean actor of Fantasy Couple, Oh Ji Ho, arrived in Hong Kong on Tuesday (27 May) morning. He is in town to attend the star-studded grand opening party of Diesel’s high profile Hong Kong flagship store. Diesel is an Italian casual clothing brand which sets sights on hip baby boomer and ageing fashionistas amid a shrinking youth market. Last month, Diesel unveiled a new store in Tokyo, its biggest in Asia.

Oh came to Hong Kong with his two assistants. Two body guards sent by the sponsoring company and staff of the public relations agency were at the airport to greet him. Oh, in casual clothes, smiled and waved at the reporters though there were just few. He was vibrant and amiable even though his fans were nowhere to be seen.

Oh has gained popularity in Hong Kong after Fantasy Couple was aired last year. He has a huge following since a local paid TV station showed his other project, ‘Get Karl! Oh Soo Jung’, earlier this year. The media dub him ‘Si-lai Killer’ as he is particularly attractive to middle aged married women.

-A. Ho

(Sources: Mingpao Daily, Apple Daily and Singtao Daily, 28th May, 2008)

Click images to enlarge.

Thank you A., for this excellent piece of news, as always, I am in your debt.

Cyworld's Back In Town!

2008-05-28T06:24:00.005-04:00

Oh Ji Ho's Cyworld Homepage is back, up and running. It has a new look, but it's the same Zio.

His comments, which are sometimes very funny, are in Korean only. The tabs are now labeled in English, making the site easier to navigate.

There are many photos there to enjoy. Hop to it: http://www.cyworld.com/ohzio

He has moved on to a new management agency, Heavenly Star Entertainment. There is a new address, which is permanantly posted to your right.

This is it for quick reference now.

Mr. Oh Ji Ho
Heavenly Star Entertainemnt
35-7 Nonhyun-dong,
Kangnam-gu,Seoul 135-815,South Korea

The address will always be posted in the sidebar, just above "About Me".

It would be nice of you to send him a note wishing him well with his new management agency.

Changes are always expensive in some way. Starting up again is not easy, so let's make an effort on his behalf, and let him know we're out here, standing by him, and standing for him.

Respectfully

2008-05-23T03:55:00.004-04:00

For some time posting here was suspended in respect for Myanmar and China as we joined in the sadness felt by so many.

But as nations rebuild and try to regain normalcy, it is time to resume here also. The sadness still hangs in the air, but you come here for diversion, and I feel the obligation to attempt to provide it.

Here's a bit of romance.
Click images to enlarge.

A Message From A. Ho - Hong Kong

2008-05-17T11:51:00.000-04:00

Thank you very much for posting a blog entry on the China quake and thinking of the quake victims.

Tens of thousands of people lost their lives in the 7.9-magnitude quake in Sichuan, China. The death toll is rocketing.

Just weeks ago, Myanmar, China’s neighouring country, was hit by a cyclone and a large number of survivors are desperate for relief aid.

In Hong Kong, people from all walks of life have pitched in to help the quake victims in Sichuan. Large amount of donations comes from business tycoons while other people do whatever they can to show their support to their countrymen.

May I appeal to the readers of this blog to lend a helping hand to those who were struck by the natural disasters? Keep the victims and the rescue workers in your prayer. Send donations to the charitable organizations which are organizing relief aid to China and Myanmar.

There is an old Chinese saying that goes like this, “Giving is happier than receiving”.

A. Ho
Hong Kong, China

Earthquake

2008-05-13T14:32:00.002-04:00

I wish to tell my Chinese readers I am very sorry for the terrible tragedy that has struck China.

I have the selfish hope you do not have people in the region that was hit. But then, China is your ancestral home. The people are your people, and you will feel pain and sadness no matter where you live.

All I can give you is my heart.

I give it to you completely.

Words feel so hollow.

In sadness shared,
Hyacinth

Myanmar

2008-05-06T15:35:00.000-04:00

It is with growing sadness and horror I read the statistics on the loss suffered by the people of Myanmar.

Please donate to an organization of your choice; one you believe is legitimate, and not self-serving, earmarking the money for Myanmar relief.

The devastation there is unbearable, yet the people will try to do the best they can to go on with their lives.

Such is the human spirit.

Please think of these people as you go about the business of your everyday life, and send a heartfelt wish to what ever you believe in, for the wellbeing of the survivors.

Thank you.
Ann

Oh Ji Ho in SSTV Quickie

2008-05-02T07:31:00.001-04:00

And the winner is...

2008-05-01T06:08:00.005-04:00

Photo # 2, with 45 votes.

The runner up in 2nd. place is photo #1 with 24 votes.

Click images to enlarge.

Total results:
There were 96 votes cast.
Photo #1-24
Photo #2-45
Photo #3-6
Photo #4-5
Photo #5-15
None-1

Thank you for voting. The winning photo will be posted at the Oh Ji Ho International Fan Club site as Photo Of The Month for May 2008.

Your Favorite Photos "Elegance"

2008-04-20T10:01:00.028-04:00

A NEW POLL!

Special Notes April 23,2008:
Remember, this Poll is about ELEGANCE, not to be confused with sexy. You can change your vote as long as the poll is running. Sexy comes later. :-)

You can easily see results by clicking "Show results" right under the poll. I have no control over color or format so you also need to left click, and run your pointer over the highlighted areas. You can then see the results of your votes clearly (somewhat).

Your opinions are valuable to me. I hope you enjoy these polls, because they speak for you.

Select your favorite picture from these, and vote for it in the new poll (right side of screen).

The winning photo will be featured on the front page of the "Oh Ji Ho International Fan Club" site on May 1, 2008.

This group is based on Oh Ji Ho's ability to display "Elegance".

Thanks for your vote!

Click images to enlarge.

This interesting bit from "B"

2008-04-13T20:47:00.001-04:00

"His birthday, which is on April 14, is also called "Black Day" in Korea. On this day, single people eat "jjajang myeon" or black bean sauce noodles :-)"

Thank you B. Always in your debt. :-)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZIO!

2008-04-13T12:20:00.002-04:00

The time in Seoul is approximately 1:20 am on Monday, April 14,2008. It's officially your birthday.

From your friends all over the world. HAVE A GREAT DAY!

We all wish you many more in joy and health, and we ALSO wish you success in all your ventures. We are always with you in our support and in our hearts.

Catching up a bit...

2008-04-04T01:58:00.010-04:00

The mailing address for Oh Ji Ho's birthday cards and any other notes or cards is:

오지호 - Mr. Oh Ji Ho
STAR EMPIRE ENTERTAINMENT
376-28 Hapjeong-dong Mapo-gu
Seoul – Republic of Korea 121-884

Thanks for your participation in the poll. The results were 99 votes. 99 YES! Way to go!

New stuff to enjoy with your morning tea or coffee:

April Fool's Day came and went, but didn't leave quietly. Oh Ji Ho's Cyworld blog contained a message directing fans to a different address for the purpose of sending cards and gifts.

It appears possible Oh Ji Ho did not write this message himself, since as Linda pointed out, it wasn't signed "Zio" at the bottom of the post. HOWEVER, I know he's funny, and if he did post it there, his sense of humor is alive and well.

The post was first brought to my attention by Linda, who spends a lot of time digging around, and is a great source of info.

I owe thanks to "B" for letting me know it was a joke, before her little son pushed her off her chair to get her away from the computer, thereby cutting her letter off. Thanks much B, you're a national treasure.

Finally kirra12ppil, who has been extremely dedicated to promoting Single Papa through her great efforts, told me more regarding the text of the mystery message. It goes as follows.

QUOTE:
"because I'm too far (or unable) to pick up the presents at Star Empire from Zionism, please send them here."

He gave the address in Korean, then he wrote,

"if you don't write Korean, this will do', then gave the address in English.
END QUOTE

The address appears to have something to do with adult entertainment. (If that idea offends you, read the above with your eyes closed.)

As if all that were not enough, the pranks continued into the late hours, with a phone call to the producer of "Papa" stating Oh Ji Ho had collapsed on the set from exhaustion. The producer raced to the hospital where the scene was being filmed, to find everyone laughing it up. Got You! April Fool!

I don't know about you, but all this woke me up. I laughed all day on the 2nd. I love it when things go slightly crazy. A little bit of madness is good for the soul.

Meanwhile, Linda continued to dig like a Terrier, and came up with this prize. A touch of backstage. Thanks Lin, as always.

Click image to enlarge.

That's it for the moment.
Love and kisses,
Hyacinth

SEND YOUR MAIL.

2008-04-01T04:49:00.006-04:00

Ladies and gentlemen,
I suspect the information I got this morning was not correct.

Star Empire is a very respected and stable company with an excellent record of responsibility. Therefore, I am going to tell you now, to send your cards to the address below. They will definitely reach Oh Ji Ho.

I'm very sorry for all this confusion, and to have upset you, if I did.

Today is April Fool day, and it is possible there was a hoax or joke being played.

This message is not a joke. This address is the one I have used for over a year to send cards to Oh Ji Ho. They have always gotten to him.

So feel comfortable about it, and do send your mail.

Again, I apologize for any confusion I may have caused. Don't worry. I am sometimes over cautious and too careful. I always want verification about anything I post here. That is why I pulled the address down earlier.

오지호 - Mr. Oh Ji Ho
STAR EMPIRE ENTERTAINMENT
376-28 Hapjeong-dong Mapo-gu
Seoul – Republic of Korea 121-884

Thank you very much for sending him your birthday greetings. I know he will be happy because you thought of him.

Regards,
Hyacinth

Oh Ji Ho's Birthday is April 14th

2008-03-22T16:02:00.002-04:00

Would you like to send Oh Ji Ho a birthday card?

Please put your answer up at the new poll on the right side of the page.

If enough people say yes, I will post an address for him here.

If no address is posted on April 2, 2008, I will consider the interest too low and will not post it. You will be able to make a request through my contact button in my profile if you wish, and I will send it to you privately..

Happy Easter Everyone!
Hyacinth

Papa Airs in Europe

2008-03-18T06:36:00.002-04:00

Single Papa Press Conference 080212

With English Subtitles.

With many warm thanks to drolfxil. Visit her and tell her you appreciate her efforts, by clicking on this sentence!

Oh Ji Ho Visits Seoul National University Hospital

2008-03-14T13:05:00.004-04:00

Many thanks to Linda A. for this English translated (AT LAST! FINALLY) KBS article and the photos following the text. Gold Star work Lin!

Oh Ji Ho and and Ahn Do-gyu Visit Seoul National University Hospital

Actors Oh Ji-ho and Ahn Do-gyu, who play father and son, respectively, on the KBS 2TV Mon/Tues drama "Single Dad in Love," regularly meet children with rare illnesses.

On March 11th, Oh Ji-ho visited the children's wing at Seoul National University Hospital where he met 3-year old Ha-neul, who has never been out of the hospital due to a congenital illness called 'tufting enteropathy.' Tufting enteropathy sometimes causes irreversible intestinal failure and prevents patients from absorbing and digesting their food. There are only three people in Korea with this rare disease.

Oh Ji-ho was originally at the hospital for the filming of the the March 15th broadcast of "Love's Request" (KBS 1TV). He stayed in the children's wing long after the shoot was over, making helium-filled balloons for the children and consoling their guardians.

In "Single Dad in Love," Oh Ji-ho plays a character who goes to any length to ensure the care of his son recently diagnosed with a brain tumor.

KBS Global Entertainment News
Original Article

Click images to enlarge.

Words from Linda

2008-03-11T10:23:00.006-04:00

This is from Linda. I got it this morning:

"Single Papa is still suffering from low ratings the public is missing out.

I really feel for him, still I believe he will be nominated based on the content and his performance.

Ann - If this had been positioned right it would be a great accomplishment for his career.

We both know he needs a hit series and this was it.

I don't know what will happen after this is over unless there is a change in viewing."
END OF QUOTE

Linda and I are women of adult age. We are far from being air-headed little girls with a crush on an actor. We've both had experience with the entertainment field, but from different angles and positions.

We both understood instantly what the ratings in Korea will do to any program aired there. Low ratings decrease the chances of sponsorship radically. (Sponsorship is EVERYTHING. TV is all about money. That's the ugly, shallow truth.)

Without sponsorship, a program stands a chance of cancellation before it ends. In the case of KBS, this probably won't happen.

BUT, this site is for and about Oh Ji Ho, and our specific concern regards his career and the hit it may take due to the disastrous scheduling of this program. We are also sensitive to the effects on the entire cast, writer, director, etc. Everyone involved suffers from the fallout generated by low ratings.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, sums it up very neatly. That is precisely why I am urging you to write to KBS.

It doesn't matter if you're in Singapore, London, Calgary, or tha Bronx. You don't have to be in Korea to care. You understand the situation. You have been reading about it here.

If you are a "fan" or supporter of Oh Ji Ho's, WRITE and express yourself about how you feel. Stony, injured silence only works in movies. This is real life. Start howling.

Mr. Jung Yun-joo
KBS
18 Yoido-dong Youngdungpo-gu Seoul 150-790, Korea

Some photos Linda sent with her letter will be added to this post shortly. While you're waiting, WRITE.

Click Images to enlarge.

Don't think it can't happen...

2008-03-06T06:19:00.003-05:00

You can make a difference.

Tell them you don't like the terrible time slot Single Papa is stuck in.
Mr. Jung Yun Joo
KBS
18 Yoido-dong Youngdungpo-gu Seoul 150-790, Korea

Single Papa Cast Interview English subs

2008-03-05T10:35:00.001-05:00

Presented by drolfxil.
Go to YouTube and leave a comment or rating for this nice little vid.

Korean heart-throb visited by Nippon fans

2008-03-04T02:49:00.003-05:00

This comes to us from A. Ho., our Hong Kong reporter, and faithful observer. Many thanks for a great job as always. :-)
Click image to enlarge.

Korean heart-throb visited by Nippon fans
Singtao Daily, Hong Kong, March 3, 2008

Over twenty fans of Oh Ji Ho flew to Seoul from Japan recently. They went to Oh’s agency and left him some gifts and letters written by his fans. On the following day, they visited Oh on location while he was making ‘Single Papa in Love’. Oh was so impressed that he patiently autographed for them one by one and took photos with the Japanese fans.

Oh Ji Ho shot to fame in Japan after ‘Fantasy Couple’ and ‘Get Karl! Oh Soo Jung’ had been shown on local channels. Oh’s agency indicated that they would seriously consider promoting Oh in Japan after he finished ‘Single Papa in Love’. Oh is also loved by Taiwan’s audiences. When he was on a promotional tour to Taiwan last May for ‘Fantasy Couple’, he received very warm welcome from the fans and media.

(translated and adapted from an article in Singtao Daily, Hong Kong, dated 3 March, 2008)

Get your pencils sharpened...

2008-02-29T15:58:00.003-05:00

Time to write a letter. The (edited for this site) text below is in answer to a post at Soompi in which the time slot of "Papa" came up.

*************

[Hello C.,
It's good to know the people are leaving messages at the KBS site. (Refers to netizen activity.)

The unfortunate thing here is, if Papa had been released at a time when the competition was the standard fare, Papa would have been the hit the other shows needed to compete against. It has all the important ingredients. The only thing it doesn't have is a cute dog.

The issue of a failure due to undeservedly low ratings is deeper, and has greater impact than most people recognize. At best, Oh Ji Ho's career is still fragile at this time, and any bump will further erode his hold in the industry. He really needs something HOT.

Because Oh Ji Ho is the star of this program, he carries a lot of weight and responsibility where the success of it is concerned. That is NOT realistic, but it's the way it is in the world.

People don't blame a bad director, they don't blame a bad time slot, they don't blame a bad writer...they take aim at the easiest target, the main character, the "star". When a star gets shot down, everyone falls with him or her, and the label "flop" sticks like glue in the world of the web, which has become so powerful.

The show is hot. The time slot is not.

That’s bad news for concerned parties. It’s hard for all the other great cast members. This is a heartbreaker for them.

I do not expect KBS to alter the plan regarding the time slot. What I do expect is the same thing that happened with Star Empire.

When Star Empire started getting real mail on real paper with real postage on it, written by some very direct and intelligent real people, they began to get the idea we know what happens "over there".

It's very interesting to watch things change when Americans and other people from all over the world open their mouths in support of actors Korea thinks of as unimportant.

The people in Korea think we have no interest in anything having to do with their culture, and that we don't care when someone gets a bad deal.

Oh, we care. Especially when our hearts adopt a young friend, and he or she is on the wrong end of the stick, and getting beaten.

The entire point of these letters is to show physical proof ON paper; we out here, we are real people, and we are aware. We are not just cyber whispers. They can throw letters into the trash can, but they can't erase us with the click of a mouse. When more than one letter enters any system, it gets harder to ignore them.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK! We make real noise.

Write KBS a letter. Tell them you are not too happy about the program getting killed the way it is. Just tell them that.

Here darlings, have an address courtesy of me. Address the mail to the president and chief executive officer. That should wake someone up. Right?

Mr. Jung Yun-joo
KBS
18 Yoido-dong Youngdungpo-gu Seoul 150-790, Korea

So now you sit down and growl for Oh Ji Ho, and all the others working their butts off to make audiences happy. Make your voice heard. Postage, 90 cents from the USA, yes, that includes Hawaii, and Alaska. You can't slip out from under this obligation to support Mr. Oh.

Do I hear all those electric pencil sharpeners? NO? Come on. You can do it.

OH JI HO...You've Got Mail!

2008-02-28T23:47:00.014-05:00

Last year, just around this time, a letter writing campaign was launched. We wanted to tell Oh Ji ho we cared about him, and wanted him to be happy in his life and work.

The campaign worked, and he's been hard at work since.

These are the letters we sent.

Now, as some of you know, there's another campaign on to show our support for his new comedy/drama being shown currently on KBS2. It is sandwiched between two nearly unbeatable programs, and the ratings for the show are horrible.

The cast and crew continue to work with dedication however. They are professionals, and deserve our admiration.

Today an article in Korean popped up with a couple of photos.
Click images to enlarge.

That's OUR mail. Never think for a moment your voice isn't heard. It is. It may not get the result you wish for, but THEY do hear it.

This is the articlein Korean:

'싱글파파'오지호, 강한 한류스타 급부상

2008-02-29 04:00:04

오지호가 새로운 한류스타로 급부상중이다.
[스포츠서울닷컴 | 김용덕기자] 최근 일본 여성팬 20여명이 오지호의 소속사 사무실을 전격 방문, 한글로 쓰여진 팬레터와 선물을 놓고 갔는가하면, 다음날에는 오지호가 출연중인 KBS드라마 '싱글파파는 열애중'촬영장까지 방문했다.
예상치 못했던 손님들의 방문에 감동한 오지호는 일본팬들 한명 한명에게 일일이 싸인한 사진을 선물했고, 일본팬들은 눈물까지 글썽일 정도로 고마움을 표했다.
일본팬들은 남성적인 체취를 물씬 풍기는 오지호의 근육질 몸매와 선해보이는 눈매, 따뜻한 미소에 강한 매력을 느끼는 것으로 알려졌다.
지 난해 8월 한예슬과 파트너가 돼 출연한 드라마 '환상의 커플'이 일본에서 방영되면서 인기를 얻기 시작한 오지호는 엄정화와 함께 출연했던 드라마 '칼잡이 오수정'까지 일본에서 현재 방영중이어서 급속도로 팬들이 늘고 있다. 오지호는 이 때문에 최근까지도 일본의 후지TV 유선방송등의 한류프로그램으로부터 인터뷰 요청이 밀려들고 있다.
오지호의 소속사측은 "일본 현지 활동을 한번도 하지 않았는데, 국제 우편으로 오는 선물과 팬래터들이 점점 늘고 있다. 작년에는 '환상의 커플'홍보차 대만 프로모션갔을때도 현지 팬들 반응이 예사롭지 않았다”며 “이젠 일본을 비롯한 해외 활동을 진지하게 검토하지 않을수 없게됐다"고 밝혔다.
이어 오지호는 “모든 해외 활동은 '싱글파파는 열애중'을 성공적으로 마친 후가 될것이다. 나는 지금 ‘싱글파파’와 열애중이다”고 전했다.
한편 점점 더 재미를 더해가는 '싱글파파는 열애중'은 오지호(강풍호)가 쓰러지는 장면이 방송돼 앞으로 순탄치 않은 행보에 시청자들의 관심이 쏠리고 있다. 싱글파파는 열애중은 매주 월화 9시50분에 KBS2TV에서 방송된다.

- 주소창에 '스포츠'만 치시면 스포츠서울닷컴 기사가 한눈에!
Copyrights ⓒ 스포츠서울닷컴. 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지 -

Hope a few of you can read it. I'll get on my knees and beg good-hearted "B" for a light but accurate translation tomorrow. Tonight, I am too tired to think.

The EverDigger Linda, who has hurt her wrist by the way, (it is probably a hairline fracture) came up with the recent pics. Credit to Alexakim of Soompi for the first photo. Thank you ladies.

And now to bed...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Oh Ji Ho Recording Track for Papa OST

2008-02-23T09:44:00.006-05:00

With gratitude and thanks to "B" who supplied the code for this clip.

Thanks also to Linda A. from New York for the heads up about it being on the web.

WARNING: Slow to load without Broadband access.

"Oh Ji Ho in a surprise singing debut"

2008-02-22T11:51:00.004-05:00

"Oh Ji Ho in a surprise singing debut"

Oh Ji Ho participated in the recording session of the OST of the KBS2 TV Monday-Tuesday drama "Single Papa in Love".

He was at the recording in Mokdong, Seoul for the recording of the song "To be good for you (also "it will be good" - sorry both are OK translations) (Chodeul Geoya).

The recording official said he has a good and touching tone of voice. His first time at the recording studio seems like he was singing in a noraebang, but he got better and became more comfortable.

Oh Ji Ho's recording of "To be good for you" for "Single Papa in Love" will be available on online music sites on the 25th of February, 2008.

The album release will be announced at the end of the month.

There are a total of 18 songs in the album.

Link to original article.

This information was supplied by a very good and generous lady living in Korea. I do not have a screen name for her yet, but as soon as I do I will thank her in a much better way than this.

Meanwhile, B, thank you so much for taking the time and doing such a splendid job.

I see the people who help me as jewels. Very precious, very valued, and most of all, beautiful for your good hearts.

And now, a great photo from Linda. Applause, applause for the two great women who brought this to you. (Sound of hands clapping!)

Click image to enlarge.

Early Bird Special - Oh Ji Ho, a great Papa!

2008-02-21T04:45:00.003-05:00

Makes parenting look like fun, doesn't it?

A million roses to Linda A. for these excellent pics.
Click images to enlarge.

GREETINGS TO KST_CICHLID

2008-02-20T09:22:00.003-05:00

Hello to you, and welcome to this place.

Thank you most warmly for starting the Single Papa is in Love thread at Soompi Forums.

You did a magnificent job. It is professional, informative, and beautiful.

Viewers may visit their site by clicking here.

Also, please drop in on their DramaWiki page by clicking here.

I am happy to tell all my guests, we now have people from Vietnam visiting here.

I also wish to extend my welcome to our new guests from Hong Kong and Taiwan.

People from all nations are welcome and cherished guestss. There are no boundaries where an interest in any art form is shared. In this we become brothers and sisters.

Thank you for visiting!

Not Papa's best week...

2008-02-19T19:12:00.010-05:00

There is an old saying: "Position is everything."

That sums it up. If you stand in a line waiting to buy an orange, and there a lot of them to go around, you're in a good position no matter how long the line.

If you're at the end of a line of fifty people, and there are only 30 oranges to be had, you're in a bad position.

The figures on the new program are disappointing in the extreme. It has nothing to do with the performers or the story. It has everything to do with position.

Single Papa is up against two monsters, and they are eating the audience. Therefore the ratings, those magic ciphers the networks pursue as though they were nectar from the Gods, are not good. Papa is not in a good position, and there's more at stake than oranges.

There's a decent amount of activity at the Soompi Forum thread for the show, and a lot of screen caps some good people have uploaded.

If you are not a Soompi member, you can't access the pages. Signing up takes a few minutes, and it's free. No one will ask you to do anything extraordinary.

I'm asking you to try to show support for the show, Oh Ji Ho, and the rest of the cast, by going up to Soompi and participating in the forum. Even if you only say "hello", by commenting, you are seen as a person interested in the show. That's important. The more pages a thread has, the better. It shows a large active, or potential, audience.

These forums are usually a lot of fun once you get into them.

The first step: Sign in or sign up here: http://www.soompi.com/forums/

The second step: When you are signed in, use this link to take you directly to page 1 of the thread about Single Papa. http://www.soompi.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=190559

The above link will always take you to the thread as long as you're signed in.

A Soompi member found this link for YouTube. kirra12ppil has already put up the first 11 minutes of the show. No subtitles. Here is the link to that: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGWjdbvqN0w

It is absolutely great! See it!

See Photo Gallery

2008-02-18T14:28:00.001-05:00

...for more pictures. Click HERE.

The Korea Herald Rings Starting Bell

2008-02-17T19:38:00.003-05:00

'Single Daddy in Love' promises comic relief

A mixed martial arts fighter plays a single father to his seven-year-old son in KBS's new drama "Single Daddy in Love."

Set to air its first episode tonight, "Single Daddy in Love" follows on the heels of the star-studded melodrama "Bad Love." And, unlike its melancholy predecessor, this comic drama promises to bring laughter into households nationwide with its talented cast and quirky plot.

"[This drama] is like a fairy tale that is filled with the warm laughter and love of people who want to build their own families," said director Moon Bo-hyun.

And veteran actors Oh Ji-ho and Kang Sung-yeon, along with newcomer Heo Yi-jae, promise to give this fairy tale drama the levity and warmth it needs to have its happy ending.

Oh, 31, who won audiences over with his comic performance in MBC's drama "Fantastic Couple" (2006), now takes on the challenging role of Kang Poong-ho, a single father who ekes out a living for his small family as a mixed martial arts fighter.

But playing a single father is the least of Oh's problems. Thanks to bad back, the greatest challenge he faces is not his role as a dad but as a martial arts fighter.

"Last September, while I was filming the drama 'Karl and Su-jung,' my back was not in good condition, so I went to the hospital regularly for treatment," he explained. "As a result, I wasn't able to exercise much. I am a little worried because my role is that of a mixed martial arts fighter."

But, despite his worries, Oh, who filmed a fight scene on Jan. 28, managed to pull through just fine.

"While leading actor Oh has been filming rough fight scenes and working all night long, thanks to his strong spirit and sense of responsibility, he has been handling it well," said director Moon.

And Oh is going to need all the strength he can muster because he will be playing opposite two very talented actresses.

Actress Kang blew audiences away with her electrifying role in the blockbuster "King and the Clown" (2005). And now she takes on the complex, interesting role of Yoon So-lee, Kang Poong-ho's first love and the mother of their son, Kang San.

Playing a woman who abandons her son for a career as a pianist, Kang is going to have trouble winning viewers over. But she promises to portray a character who is more than just a one-dimensional bad gal.

"Unlike my previous drama, 'The New Good Wife,' where I played a simple-hearted and accident-prone housewife, this character is a cold, sophisticated city girl," said Kang, 31. "But that's just her from the outside. She is actually masking a great deal of pain within. And I am going to act out all of these complex emotions to the best of my ability."

Playing opposite Kang's complex, dark character is newcomer Heo. And, while she may not have racked up as much acting experience as her co-stars, Heo can hold her own on screen.

Having starred in the MBC drama "Prince Hours" (2007) and in the flick "A Dirty Carnival" (2006), this 20-year-old actress promises to light up the screen with her comedic role as Jun Ha-ri, a medical student who falls for Kang Poong-ho.

"I did a lot of character analysis before we started filming," said Heo. "The role of Ha-ri, who grew up to be a bright and energetic girl, thanks to her father's love and attention, is not a mediocre role. While she's bubbly and happy on the outside, she has her own issues. And I need to keep this in mind when playing her."

With a plot that involves a single father and the two women who love him, "Single Daddy in Love" may read like a melodramatic love triangle. But the director plans on keeping this story from being pigeonholed.

"Their lives could be portrayed in a dark and sad light," said Moon. "But all the characters are bright and optimistic, like characters in a fairy tale. They are the type of characters who can just brush off the weight of life and get back up on their feet."

Audiences can decide for themselves by tuning in tonight.

"Single Daddy in Love" airs on Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:55 p.m. on KBS 2 TV.

By Jean Oh
The Korea Herald
2008.02.18